Best Internet Providers for Rural Areas in 2024

Pablo Mendoza

Updated:10/23/24

Published:08/12/24

Discover the top internet providers for rural areas in 2024. Explore options like Viasat, HughesNet, and Rise Broadband, compare their speeds, pricing, and coverage to find the best fit for your rural internet needs

Best Internet Providers for Rural Areas in 2024

Introduction

Access to high-speed internet has become a necessity in our daily lives, but for rural areas, reliable internet options remain limited. This guide explores the best internet providers for rural communities in 2024, focusing on the unique challenges these areas face, the top providers, and how they stack up in terms of speed, reliability, and customer satisfaction.

Challenges of Rural Internet Connectivity

Rural areas often struggle with limited infrastructure, which directly impacts the availability and quality of internet services. The high costs associated with laying fiber or cable lines in sparsely populated areas often lead to slower speeds and higher prices for consumers. Additionally, many rural areas still rely on older technologies, such as DSL or satellite, which are less reliable and slower compared to urban internet services. Satellite internet, while a common solution, is susceptible to weather-related disruptions, making consistent connectivity a challenge.

Top Internet Providers for Rural Areas

Viasat

Viasat has established itself as a leading satellite internet provider, particularly in rural areas where traditional broadband services are unavailable. The company offers a range of plans designed to meet different needs, from basic browsing to heavy streaming and gaming. Viasat's coverage is extensive, reaching even the most remote areas, but it comes with some drawbacks, such as higher latency due to the nature of satellite technology.

HughesNet

HughesNet is another major player in the satellite internet space, providing consistent speeds across all its plans. While HughesNet’s maximum speed is lower than Viasat’s, it offers more affordable plans, making it a viable option for budget-conscious consumers. However, HughesNet's data caps can be restrictive, particularly for users who require more data for streaming or online work.

Rise Broadband

Rise Broadband offers fixed wireless internet, an alternative to satellite that can provide lower latency and competitive pricing. While not as widely available as Viasat or HughesNet, Rise Broadband is a strong option where it is offered, particularly for users who need more reliable speeds and lower latency for activities like online gaming or video conferencing.

Comparison Table: Viasat vs. HughesNet vs. Rise Broadband

Provider	Plan Name	Speeds	Pricing	Data Cap	Latency
Viasat	Basic	12 Mbps	$50/month	40 GB	600-700 ms
Viasat	Advanced	50 Mbps	$100/month	100 GB	600-700 ms
Viasat	Premium	100 Mbps	$150/month	150 GB	600-700 ms
HughesNet	Basic	25 Mbps	$59.99/month	10 GB	600-700 ms
HughesNet	Choice	25 Mbps	$69.99/month	20 GB	600-700 ms
HughesNet	Prime	25 Mbps	$99.99/month	50 GB	600-700 ms
Rise Broadband	Basic	25 Mbps	$45/month	250 GB	Lower than Satellite
Rise Broadband	Preferred	50 Mbps	$65/month	250 GB	Lower than Satellite
Rise Broadband	Premium	50 Mbps	$85/month	Unlimited	Lower than Satellite

Pros and Cons of Each Provider

Each provider has its own strengths and weaknesses, which can make a significant difference depending on your specific needs.

Viasat: offers higher speeds and larger data plans, making it suitable for users who need to stream or game regularly. However, the higher latency and pricing may be a concern for some users.

HughesNet: is ideal for budget-conscious consumers who do not require high data caps. The consistent speeds make it a good choice for basic internet needs, but the lower speeds and data limits can be restrictive.

Rise Broadband: provides a compelling alternative with lower latency and competitive pricing. It's a great choice for users who need reliable internet for activities like online gaming or video conferencing, though its availability is limited compared to satellite providers.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Customer feedback varies for each provider. Viasat generally receives positive reviews for its speed and reliability, though some customers express frustration with data throttling. HughesNet is praised for its consistent speeds, but its data caps are a common complaint. Rise Broadband garners positive reviews for its customer service and pricing, though coverage limitations are a frequent concern.

Conclusion with Recommendations

When choosing an internet provider in rural areas, your specific needs and budget will play a crucial role. If you need higher speeds and larger data allowances, Viasat is likely the best option. For those who are more budget-conscious and have basic internet needs, HughesNet is a solid choice. If available in your area, Rise Broadband offers lower latency and competitive pricing, making it an excellent choice for more interactive online activities.